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LAUSD School Board president Steve Zimmer discussed the superintendent race on KNX News Radio this morning and mentioned Chief Deputy Superintendent Michelle King as a potential “top candidate” to replace Ramon Cortines.

While on his way to Vine Street Elementary School to kick-off the school year, Zimmer was was asked in the interview about potential contenders for the LAUSD Superintendent’s position. The interviewer mentioned no other candidates.

“We do not have a top list, but I have known and worked with Michelle King for six years,” Zimmer said, when asked if she would be a leading contender for the job.

“If she is interested, then she would be a top candidate,” Zimmer conceded. “I have not talked to her about that yet.” King would become the district’s first female superintendent.

Zimmer did say that the school board was well on its way to finding a new superintendent and that the members have sought proposals from search companies for candidates. Cortines has expressed a desire to step down by December. “We are fully engaged in the search,” he said.

He also said he was open to looking for candidates within and outside the district.

“It could be someone from out of state, it could be someone from other parts of the Los Angeles area,” Zimmer said. “I am looking for an equity champion.”